LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced that he will step away from the national team as long as the current technical crew remains in charge, following the Teranga Lions’ elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The development comes in the aftermath of Senegal’s defeat to Belgium, a result that ended the West African nation’s campaign at the tournament and sparked unrest within the squad.
Reacting to the elimination, Gueye expressed his disappointment and revealed his decision to suspend his international career until there is a change in the team’s coaching setup.
“I will come back to say a few words regarding the elimination, but I am announcing today that as long as this technical staff remains in place, I will take a break from the national team selection,” Gueye said.
Gueye who was visibly annoyed at being taken off in the 66th minute had previously revealed that he respected his coach’s decision in the post-match conference.
“I was in good physical shape, after that it’s the coach who makes his choices… we respect them,” he told journalists in the mixed zone.
However, the midfielder’s recent statement is expected to increase pressure on the Senegal Football Federation as questions continue to mount over the future of the national team’s technical crew after their disappointing World Cup exit.
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Gueye has been a key figure for Senegal since switching allegiance from France in 2021, helping the team win the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and famously scoring the decisive extra-time goal in the 2025 AFCON final against Morocco.
He has earned over 45 caps and scored seven goals to remain a cornerstone of Senegal’s midfield.
